Griese Not the Answer for Bears
With Grossman fumbling and stumbling his way through the first three games, it's obvious something had to be done. But if Bears fans think conservative journeyman Brian Griese is going to get them back into the Super Bowl, I think they're in for a lot more disappointment this year. To me, this move pretty much locks in a 7-9 to 9-7 record and an early exit from the playoffs if they even make it that far. So if Lovie has designs on Griese as starter for the rest of the season, then the move is a mistake. If he's bringing him in to send a strong message to Grossman, and to possibly put Grossman into the role where he can eventually come back in a savior's role (everyone knows the most popular man in Chicago is the backup QB) then it could just work out. Maybe a couple games on the bench to escape some of the pressure and regroup is exactly what he needs.
In my view, however, if the Bears have decided they are done with Grossman completely, then Griese should remain the primary backup and the team might as well find out what they have in Kyle Orton before investing once again next spring in their next signal-caller of the future. Although he didn't exactly light things up his rookie season, he showed decent poise and potential. Now that he's been around for a few seasons, it may be time to put some of that potential to the test.
Bears fans will argue that this team is built to win now, so you have to go with the veteran. But with Griese, the only guarantee I think you get is that you don't win the Super Bowl. Griese won't make as many mistakes for you, but he also won't make many plays downfield. And to win the Super Bowl, you have to have a QB who can win games for you, not just manage them.
The results very likely could be the same regardless of which of the three are in there the rest of the season, but at least with Grossman and Orton there is some potential upside.
Photo: Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
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